MLGW supports the efforts of local schools to equip graduating students to be prepared for the modern world and its technically oriented workforce by seeking advanced education and training, whether by attending college, training in military service, or seeking admittance to a vocational or apprentice program. In line with Memphis City Schools' "Every Child. Every Day. College Bound." mantra, Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW) is including employment at the utility company as one of those preparatory choices and is now offering MCS students the opportunity to become "MLGW Bound."

MLGW Goes to School is a new MLGW program developed to encourage students in Memphis City Schools to explore career opportunities in the utility business, specifically Memphis' own publicly owned utility. Details about the program and its exciting initiatives will be announced to the public on Monday, March 26 at the MCS Board of Education at 2597 Avery. Those participating in the event will be MCS MLGW President and CEO Joseph Lee, III, William (Rick) Thompson, Business Manager, IBEW Local 1288, Patrice Robinson, MCS Board President and supervisor of MLGW employee development (also known as MLGW University), as well as Dr. Carol Johnson, Superintendent, Memphis City Schools.

MLGW has long been involved in the education process locally, with particular emphasis on the needs, support and training of students in the Memphis City Schools. MLGW supports such activities as summer internships, Junior Achievement, Explorer posts, and sponsors many programs at its adopted school, Carver High School. Now, with the initiative of MLGW Goes to School, many more students will become familiar with what kind of study and training is needed to prepare themselves for careers in the utility industry, including positions as engineers, electronics technicians, electrical linemen, accountants, drafters, customer service representatives, and many more.

Among its many initiatives, the MLGW Goes to School program will offer a summer job-shadowing program as well as a mentoring program for students to introduce them to the variety of careers at MLGW and the exciting working environment at the nation's largest three-service public utility. This multi-year program will serve a dual purpose of not only making students aware of opportunities in the utility industry, but also providing the utility with a ready local resource for future talented and qualified employees.